AFP ICON 2020

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

5 Trends With the Power to Change Major Gift Fundraising

Major gift fundraisers are laser-focused on donors, but sector-wide trends are changing the field as we know it. In this session, we will explore the big picture, bringing together nonprofit leaders to discuss the decline in broad-based giving and the rise of mega-donors, tax law changes, the relentless emphasis on outcomes, and more.

Speakers

Joshua Else

Margie Kim joined The Trust for Public Land in 2010 as chief philanthropy officer, building upon a 30-year, successful record in human services, higher education, and conservation. Previously, she was director of Philanthropy for the Asia-Pacific Region of The Nature Conservancy. Kim received her BA in Linguistics/Psychology and MSW from UCLA.

Margie Kim

As vice president for Campbell & Company, Christina Yoon uses her broad experience when advising nonprofits. She has experience as an independent consultant and MIT fundraiser. Yoon serves on the IDEA Committee of AFP International and is a seasoned speaker. She holds a B.S. from Yale and a Ph.D. from MIT.

Christina Yoon

Joshua Else's career encompasses over 20 years of management, fundraising, consulting, and volunteer leadership. Prior to his current role, he was associate Dean for External Affairs at the Bloomberg School of Public Health. A Wake Forest University graduate, Else also earned an MBA from the University of Hawaii in Honolulu.

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

A (Cis) Man’s Place Is in This Session: No, Really, Come to This Session

Do you get a sense that womxn in the fundraising field have a heavy load to bear? Do you feel like some men are making all men look bad? Are you wondering what YOU could do--or not do--about it? You don’t have to be that guy anymore. Come learn how to help seed change.

Speakers

Heather Hill

Heather Hill is a seasoned nonprofit executive and AFP Master Trainer, experienced in several areas of the philanthropic sector, including higher education, human services, associations, faith-based, and international relief and development organizations. A highly rated international speaker, she has worked as a consultant in the sector and most recently served as vice president for advancement at Concordia College New York. Hill is chair of the CFRE International Board of directors and is a member of Rogare.

Ashley Belanger

Ashley Belanger is a bona fide nonprofit nerd. Having served in the trenches as a founding ED, she now delights in converting staff and board members from reluctant beggars to ambitious peddlers of joy. By applying research and theory to the fundraising, behavioral science, social science, marketing, design, and education, she helps her awesome clients build better organizations to achieve greater impact. Belanger is a proud member of Rogare: The Fundraising Think Tank, and she serves on the Rhode Island AFP chapter's professional development committee.

Cherian Koshy

Cherian Koshy has more than two decades of experience in a variety of nonprofits, where he has successfully helped organizations connect thousands of donors to causes they care about, raising tens of millions of dollars in the process. An AFP Master Trainer, he serves as the director of development at Des Moines Performing Arts, one of the nation’s premier arts organizations. Koshy is also a member of Rogare: The Fundraising Think Tank.

Tycely Williams

As chair of AFP’s Women’s Impact Initiative (WII), Tycely Williams, CFRE, has inspired individuals and institutions to invest more than $84 million in charitable causes. Currently, she serves as vice president of development for YWCA USA. Over the past 20 years, Williams has advanced philanthropy at the American Red Cross, the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington, and four human services organizations. She is a past president of the AFP DC Chapter.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

A Christian, a Muslim, and a Jew Walk Into a Room...

Should you offer a Christian donor a cookie during Lent? Is it okay to book a meeting with a Muslim donor on a Friday? Should you wear a head covering to talk to a Jewish donor? Where to start? In this interactive session, learn ideas and tips for understanding and communicating with people of faith. The only stupid question will be the one you didn''t ask.

Speakers

Irshad Osman

Irshad Osman, CFRE, is a Theologian (an Imam) by training and a fundraiser by profession. He obtained his Bachelor's in Arabic-Islamic studies from Naleemiah Islamic University in Sri Lanka and completed his master's degree in Public Policy and Management from the University of Manchester. Irshad Osman is currently the senior development officer of Inclusive Giving at the Women’s College Hospital Foundation. He volunteers as the director of Interfaith Relations at Cordoba Centre for Civic Engagement.

Ann Rosenfield

Ann Rosenfield, MBA, CFRE, is an award-winning professional who has been helping donors, volunteers, boards, and neighbours make good decisions about charity for over 20 years. She is currently running a major gifts program for a Reform Jewish Congregation. Rosenfield also serves as the editor of Hilborn Charity eNews, Canada's weekly source for sector news. In her spare time, she serves as board secretary of Rainbow Railroad.

Lori Guenther Reesor

Lori Guenther Reesor, B. Math, MTS, DMin, is an expert in Christian giving, although, as a Mennonite, she trembles at using the word "expert" to describe herself. She asked Christian donors about their giving during a church basement tour as part of her Doctor of Ministry research in Christian giving. Reesor has spent her career working with church and charity. She brings a keen eye for numbers and an ear for stories to her work.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

A Seat at the Table or Part of the Meal: Creating a Culture of Inclusion

If you don''t have a seat at the table, you will be a part of meal, or, as they say down South, "You will be discussed!" Others will satisfy their appetites for superiority or ill-informed biases to dish out what they think about those not present at the table. Check the biases within your organization and find the tools needed to create a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Speakers

Kimberly Lewis

Kimberly B. Lewis, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of East Texas, has 19 years of nonprofit and business experience. She has a B.A. in Fine Arts and an M.S. in Adult Technical Education. Lewis is the D&I chair for Goodwill Industries International, a Forbes Nonprofit Council member and contributor, a 2018-19 Global Good Fellow, a Gerson Lehrman Group (GLG) Council Member, owner of Motivational Muse, LLC, and an author.

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Advocacy and Philanthropy: Turning Donors Into Powerful Advocates

Our nonprofit organizations can no longer afford to stay silent on the public policies that affect our missions and the communities we serve. As fundraisers, we are positioned to engage our donors and help them become powerful advocates for our causes and system change. In this session, we will address the myths and fears around nonprofits engaging in advocacy, and hear from fundraisers who, through effective advocacy, have developed deeper donor relations while increasing giving and donor loyalty.

Speakers

Mary-Frances Wain

Mary-Frances Wain is the Svice president for External Affairs with NWLC, overseeing communications and development. Wain has over 20 years experience in organizational capacity building, specializing in resource mobilization for women’s empowerment and underserved audience initiatives. She previously served as executive director of Philanthropy for the United Nations Foundation and vice president of Philanthropy at Make-A-Wish Foundation. Wain has owned a philanthropic consulting firm and is an alumnus of Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.

Anthony Petchel

Anthony Petchel is the director of Philanthropy and Communications for REACH Community Development. In this position, he leads the fundraising, marketing, and communications team responsible for fundraising and communications strategies and public policy advocacy. Petchel served as vice president of Development at the region’s science museum (OMSI). Before transitioning to fundraising, he spent over 16 years in commercial banking. Petchel holds an MBA and degrees in Psychology and Sociology and has over 20 years of nonprofit board service.

Tiffany Miller

Tiffany Miller is Chief of Staff and vice president of Policy for Communities In Schools (CIS). As Chief of Staff, she executes strategic plan goals and provides counsel on strategic direction. As vice president of Policy, Miller develops a comprehensive government relations strategy and actively engages with federal policymaking bodies to raise the awareness and brand of CIS. Prior to joining CIS, she was the director of Education Policy at the Center for American Progress.

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Ask For Anything Artfully

What if you had a specific 3-sentence recipe to ask for anything? You will write and speak an Ask for a Major gift or anything - event sponsors, operations, board service, and endowment gifts. You may rock at creating a great relationship, but the gift comes from a clear ask, confidently delivered. Learn how with Marcy Heim’s special presentation style of fun and hands-on action!

Speakers

Marcy Heim

Marcy Heim, CFRE, CSP, PLCC, AFP Master Teacher, rockstar keynote, coach, author, singer, and mom inspires mindset and methods so you live your best life and transform the world through generosity. She has made multi-million asks, led in a $1.8B campaign, and empowered scores to ask with her trademark 3-sentence Ask. The Artful Asker specializes in relationship management, staff retention, and inspired board engagement. Subscribe to her blog at marcyheim.com. Get ready to sing, laugh, and learn!

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Beyond the Hype: What Actually Works in Digital Fundraising and Social Media

Tired of all the hype around social media, especially when it comes to fundraising? Want to learn what *actually* works and how to prioritize your digital fundraising efforts to drive donations and build community? Yes, even small nonprofits can get real results on social media. We will show you how in this interactive, tactical workshop for digital fundraisers who want to start working smarter, not harder on social media.

Speakers

Julia Campbell

Julia Campbell, MPA, is a global authority on nonprofit digital storytelling. The author of Storytelling in the Digital Age: A Guide for Nonprofits and Social Media Success in 90 Days: A Guide for Nonprofits and Change Agents, she trains nonprofits on how to use digital tools to tell compelling stories, engage active supporters, and raise millions.

Josh Hirsch

Josh Hirsch has an extensive background in social media, digital communications, and marketing, along with grant research and writing, individual giving, special event planning, stewardship, and cultivation of donors. He has a certificate in strategic fundraising and philanthropy from Bay Path University. Hirsch also has an M.S. in family, youth, and community sciences and a B.S. in advertising, both from the University of Florida.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Changing Global Paradigms: Leading on Shifting Sands

Leadership in 2020 requires a different set of skills, talents, and experience than before, and the shift will become even more dramatic over the next decade. Drawing from extensive experience leading organizations, chairing boards, and coaching CEOs and board leaders, speaker Bob Carter, CFRE, will engage participants in a dynamic discussion on leadership.

Speakers

Bob Carter

Past chair of AFP International and current chair of Carter, a philanthropic consulting firm, Bob Carter, CFRE, is known worldwide as an expert in major and mega-fundraising campaigns. His true passion, however, lies in preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate rapidly changing cultures, business models, and expectations. Carter's perspective is shaped through four decades of experience during which he chaired seven nonprofit boards, built multi-million-dollar fundraising programs, and counseled hundreds of nonprofit organizations.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Chasing Cash Is Crazy: Creativity Counts Crafting Consistently Credible Contributions

Planned giving often concentrates on the arcane mechanics of gifting vehicles while ignoring the motivations of the donor. In this session, we examine the donor''s point of view. Specifically, we will examine how to identify the donor''s financial and estate planning challenges and how to address those challenges with planned giving.

Speakers

Richard Lehrman

Richard Alan Lehrman specializes in trust and estate planning and administration, philanthropic gift planning, and business succession, keeping wealth in the family and structuring it to perpetuate the family’s legacy. He is a featured writer and lecturer on these topics has been cited as an authority in national publications. Lehrman is listed in Who’s Who in American Law and has a Martindale-Hubbell® AV® Preeminent™ rating for 20 consecutive years.

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

Creating Culturally Responsive Fundraising Campaigns

Organized philanthropy is not doing an adequate job of engaging non-white communities. African-American, Hispanic, and Muslim donors are solicited less frequently. These communities suggest they would give more if they were asked more often. This session will look at fundraising preferences and motivations for giving in non-white and diverse faith communities. Participants will learn how to move away from a one-size-fits-all fundraising approach and how cultural norms play a role in engaging new communities.

Speakers

Saadia Ahmed

Saadia Ahmed graduated in International Studies from Austin College. She is a community leader, founder, and adviser to numerous nonprofit and community initiatives and executive director for GEM Advisers mentorship program. Ahmed was recently awarded the "Trailblazer" award by the Texas Muslim Women's Foundation and recognized for her social justice advocacy and community organizing in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area with the "Community Leader of the Year" annual award from Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR)-D/FW.

Rachel Branaman

Rachel Branaman, MA, is the principal consultant for Talem Consulting. Her experience includes executive leadership, marketing, fundraising, project management, and organizational development. Branaman has unique experience conducting work for organizations that work with communities of color, immigrants, refugees, religious minorities, and other impacted communities. She uses an intersectional and equity-based framework to serve organizations, ranging from social services to the arts, to create a robust organizational culture and infrastructure.

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Crushing It: Capital Campaign Communications That Knock Their Socks Off

How do you write capital campaign communications so they inspire donors to take action? How can you better use communications to engage with campaign ambassadors and donors early on? What print or digital tools will you need during each phase? This session will focus on the best ways to communicate your case for support so you can close big gifts with confidence. Learn how to engage with major donors in new ways.

Speakers

Bonnie Epstein

As Vice Chancellor and chief development officer, Bonnie Epstein leads the JTS development team in cultivating and soliciting major gifts and is responsible for all operating areas of development, including regional fundraising, grants, and more.

Vicky Bisogno

Vicky Bisogno heads Transportation Alternatives’ development team, overseeing a diverse revenue portfolio and a team of seven. Previously, she had focused largely on capital campaigns as in-house staff at The Juilliard School and Friends of the High Line. Bisogno also served as a consultant with the global strategic fundraising firm CCS.

Sarah Durham

Sarah Durham is the CEO of Big Duck, a communications firm that helps nonprofits experiencing significant growth and change leverage communications strategically to advance their missions. The author of Brandraising: How Nonprofits Raise Visibility and Money Through Smart Communications, she also serves as chair of the National Brain Tumor Society's board of directors.

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

Diversity in Development: Black Women Wear White Hats

Have you ever felt like Olivia Pope, always striving to save everything in development when you can barely save yourself? Join this session as we discuss the Kerry Washington effect--managing while black. We will host an honest and transparent conversation about black women and overcoming barriers in competency, compliance, and self-care.

Speakers

Taylor Ballard

Professional Bio Here

Tiffany Stafford

Tiffany Stafford is the director of Fund Development at Target Hunger. Every day, she strives alleviate hunger and its root causes in Houston by raising funds to continue the mission of the organization.

Lashonda Williams

Lashonda Williams is the Annual Fund director for Prairie View A&M University. Her roles in education may best be summarized as a change agent whose leadership has generated quantifiable results. Results of her commitment to excellence include student academic achievement, increased student and alumni engagement, cultivation of community relationships, an increase in benefactors/sponsorship, program recognition in local and state news, radio show guest appearances, and conference presentation opportunities.

Cherrelle Duncan

As the founder of Duncan Impact Solutions, Cherrelle Duncan is responsible for providing clients with resources to implement effective strategies to build their organizations, mobilize fundraising efforts, and increase visibility within their communities. She received her Master of Public Service and Administration degree from Texas A&M University and B.A. from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Duncan was chosen as a 2016 AFP Diverse Communities International Conference Scholar and a 2017 Outstanding Young Professional.

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Donor Advised Funds: The New Paradigm in Philanthropy

Donor advised funds (DAFs) are not only here to stay, they are growing faster than any other charitable vehicle. Yet effectively engaging with donors who establish DAFs can be challenging for development professionals. In this session, we will explore donor motivations for establishing DAFs, the restrictions governing them, how to position your organization to ask for and receive DAF donations, and the underlying ethical issues driving recent controversies.

Speakers

Josephine Everly

Josephine Everly is chief development officer of Leadership Roundtable, facilitating philanthropic gifts and grants to advance the mission of the organization and its programs and initiatives. She is an educator, writer, researcher, and speaker with over 20 years of experience in fund development for community foundations and nonprofits. Everly received her MA in Philanthropy and Development from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, where she is adjunct instructor.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

Donor Love: Brain, Data, and Experience to Supercharge Your Donor Retention

Have you ever wondered what "donor love" or retention means in practice and how to measure it? With the help of neuroscience and real fundraising cases from around the world, this session will show how to engage donors using science, experience, and data to supercharge the lifetime value (LTV) of donors.

Speakers

Francesco Saverio Ambrogetti

Francesco Saverio Ambrogetti is the UNICEF global lead of supporter engagement in NY. Before reaching this position, he was at the Capital Development Fund of the UN and director of fundraising for UNICEF Italy. He has over 20 years international experience with UNICEF, UNAIDS, World Bank, WWF, and MSF, in Geneva, Panama, and Bangkok. Ambrogetti teaches at the University of Bologna and authored Emotionraising: How to Astonish, Disturb, Seduce and Convince the Brain to Support Good Causes.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Elevate Your Event Experiences

Events are all about memory making, and you are the memory makers. Moving your attendees to emotion is your goal, but they can’t be emotional if they’re not immersed in the experience. You don’t need large budgets to get the essentials right, you need to prioritize what matters to your guests. Come join us as we explore best practices for bringing interactive experiences to life at events!

Speakers

Jan McGuire

Jan McGuire is a donor relations professional that practices what she preaches. She has led the team at Auburn University for 9 years and to national prominence. McGuire believes that in modern fundraising, the donor experience is the key to a nonprofit's success. She knows that we must make our donors happy to keep them as loyal supporters of our mission.

Lynne Wester

Lynne Wester believes that donor relations is the key to unlocking fundraising success and that organizations must be as dedicated to the donor experience as they are to the ask. She is featured in publications such as the Washington Post and the Chronicle of Philanthropy and has authored three books. Wester received her B.A. from South Carolina, holds a Masters in Strategic Fundraising and Philanthropy from BayPath, and proudly sports a Ducktorate from the Disney Institute.

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

Embracing the Power of Your Legacy Pipeline

The success of any legacy program relies on good prospects, inspiring stories, and a strategic approach to moving donors, but what actions and moves do you need at every stage of the process? This session will share how to implement a three-step pipeline matrix for inspiring donors to leave a legacy to your organization and how to design engaging and personalized supporter journeys that will both excite your donors and build better relationships with them.

Speakers

Ligia Pena

Ligia Peña, CFRE is the Global Legacy Manager at Greenpeace International where she drives the organization’s global legacy strategy and manages a community of practice of legacy managers in 14 countries. She’s a seasoned presenter internationally and author of the ‘Small Shop Fundraising’ chapter in the 2nd volume of Excellence in Fundraising in Canada. You can follow her adventures at www.globetrottingfundaiser.com

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Everything That’s Wrong With Fundraising Self-Regulation–And Quite a Bit That’s Right

This session presents new ways of thinking about fundraising self-regulation that can lead to more focused and targeted regulatory initiatives and foster better mutual understanding and collaboration between regulators and those they regulate. It also identifies practical ways to improve fundraisers’ compliance with existing standards.

Speakers

Ian MacQuillin

Ian MacQuillin is the founder and director of the international fundraising think tank Rogare. He is a leading thinker on fundraising ethics, having developed a new normative theory of ethics specifically to cope with ethical dilemmas in fundraising. MacQuillin is also researching why many peopled have such negative attitudes to being asked to give to charity.

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Everything You Know About Boards Is Wrong

So, you think you know board "best practices"? Term limits? Board fundraising obligations? What research data backs up these ideas? In this provocative session, members of the Alliance for Nonprofit Management Governance Affinity Group will facilitate a robust discussion on the implications of the research. You will learn to question everything you thought you knew.

Speakers

Ann Cohen

Founded in 1999 Ann Cohen & Associates combines Ann’s business and nonprofit experience to enable organizations to identify and achieve high performing governance, create and address their strategic goals and make it work. Her work encompasses board development, management effectiveness, strategic planning, program design and implementation. She understands disruption can be a catalyst to learning and thus delivers the leadership training, coaching, conflict resolution and learning required to lead, implement action and continue the learning.

Mike Burns

With over 20 years of nonprofit executive experience, Mike is a partner and organizational development consultant in BWB Solutions. His work focuses on strategic and business planning, nonprofit governance, and, helping nonprofits assess their readiness for mergers. His blog, Nonprofit Board Crisis, highlights nonprofit governance matters. As a research team member, he recently completed two national surveys on nonprofit board leadership. Mike is Associate Faculty in University of New Haven’s Nonprofit Management Certificate Program.

Gayle Gifford

A nationally respected consultant and writer, Gayle Gifford's expertise in governance runs deep, including authoring How to Make Your Board Dramatically More Effective, Starting Today. An instructor at Brown University, Gifford serves on the Governance Affinity Group of the Alliance for Nonprofit Management and was co-researcher on Voices of Board chairs.

Judy Freiwirth

For over thirty years Dr. Freiwirth has been training and consulting to nonprofits, coalitions, and public organizations. She is a national thought leader in nonprofit governance and is the primary developer/researcher for the innovative governance approach, Community-Engagement Governance™, a shared governance framework. She holds a doctorate in psychology, specializing in organization development, and serves on the Board of the Alliance for Nonprofit Management and the Editorial Board the Journal of Nonprofit Education and Leadership.

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

Fairy tale wedding, marriage of convenience or out of necessity? Creating the perfect union between business and your nonprofit.

The marriage between your organization and businesses requires a lot of work and is not to be taken for granted. Learn how to attract businesses, identify their needs, and nurture a relationship to benefit your community happily ever after. The session will include a case study of how one organization, created a program that worked to increase engagement of business supporters to increase their financial support, advocate, and promote the organization’s services.

Speakers

Steven Titlebaum

Steven Titlebaum, CFRE, is a fundraising consultant with 20+ years of nonprofit and fundraising experience with local and national nonprofit organizations. Throughout his career, he has held most development office positions: database management, annual giving, major gifts/capital campaigns, planned giving, and corporate support. Through these positions, Titlebaum has established a grants program for trade association foundation, established a business networking group supporting hospice, and re-established planned giving programs at two organizations.

Linda Lysakowski

Linda Lysakowski is one of just over one hundred professionals worldwide to have earned the ACFRE designation. She has trained more than 40,000 development professionals around the world. Lysakowski is the author of numerous books, including Fundraising as a Career, Are You Ready for a Capital Campaign?, Raise More Money from Your Business Community, Fundraising for the GENIUS, and more. She also co-authored The Leaky Bucket, The New Donor, Nonprofit Strategic Planning, and others.

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Fish in Your Own Pond: Combining Analytics and Stewardship to Raise More Money

Did you know that donor attrition is at an all-time high and second gift conversion is at an all-time low? In this session, learn about a proven method to create deeper relationships with your current donors, to "fish in your own pond" for those who have higher capacity or are prospects for other forms of giving. Learn to combine stewardship with donor database analytics, and refocus on both the art and science of fundraising.

Speakers

Sam Laprade

For three decades, Sam Laprade has been inspired by philanthropy. Her life's passion is connecting with generous donors to help change lives and save lives. Laprade has experience with fundraising overall and specializes in donor database analytics, board relations, and stewardship. She also speaks about tough topics in the nonprofit sector. Laprade is the creator and host of “An Hour to Give” on 1310 News. The radio show focuses on philanthropy, volunteerism, and community.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

From Reliable to Remarkable: Growing Regular Gifts

Raise more money by shifting from annual giving to regular giving. Discover strategies for growing loyal, regular donors. Too many nonprofits pin their hopes on end-of-year giving. Instead, learn how to set aggressive, yet attainable, goals for year-round gifts and implement a plan that ensures success.

Speakers

Karin Cox

Specializing in major gift and campaign fundraising worldwide, Karin Cox is co-founder of Hartsook. She has served in senior leadership roles in nonprofit and business sectors and is an author, frequent presenter, and senior consultant. Cox works with nonprofit organizations of every size and scope, helping them advance their programs and raise millions of dollars.

Janell Johnson

Janell Johnson is well versed in all aspects of capital campaigns. She has considerable experience in board development, strategic planning, and staff management. Johnson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University and a Master’s of Public Administration and Certification of Nonprofit Leadership Administration from Western Michigan University. Her articles on donor engagement the use of social media are included in the book $231 Billion Raised and Counting.

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Fundraiser Burnout: How Well Are We Looking After Ourselves?

In 36 years of fundraising, I have personally seen fundraisers suffer from burnout, depression, alcoholism, premature death, and even suicide. Many of us probably know friends and colleagues that are affected. I have been there. In this session, we will explore causes of stress and burnout, how to recognize the signs in ourselves and others, and explore ways in which we can address the situation.

Speakers

Ligia Pena

Ligia Peña, CFRE is the Global Legacy Manager at Greenpeace International where she drives the organization’s global legacy strategy and manages a community of practice of legacy managers in 14 countries. She’s a seasoned presenter internationally and author of the ‘Small Shop Fundraising’ chapter in the 2nd volume of Excellence in Fundraising in Canada. You can follow her adventures at www.globetrottingfundaiser.com

Daryl Upsall

Madrid-based Daryl Upsall has 36 years of experience working with 230 nonprofits in 62 countries. Known for his leadership and innovation, he pioneered digital and face-to-face fundraising. His agencies, Daryl Upsall & associates and Daryl Upsall Consulting International, provide strategic consulting and recruitment services for the leading United Nations agencies and INPOs. Upsall has presented in 25 countries. He is a fellow of the U.K.'s Institute of Fundraising and former AFP International vice-chair.

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Fundraising Across Borders: Working with Volunteer Leadership and Major Donors Outside the United States

In today''s globalized world, more and more U.S.-based nonprofit organizations are beginning to fundraise abroad. While this presents opportunities for expanded brand awareness and meaningful major gifts, it also presents unique challenges. How do you learn about cultural nuances and adjust your approach accordingly? How do you best engage volunteers who live hours, possibly even many time zones away?

Speakers

Jenny L. Williams

Jenny L. Williams joined Salzburg Global Seminar in early 2018 to launch and lead the organization’s largest and first fundraising campaign. Previously, she spent over a decade at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History managing the museum’s successful $225 million campaign. Williams also served as a fellow in eastern Europe focusing on cultural heritage conservation and preservation.

Jennifer McMillan

Jenny S. McMillan is the Associate Director of Advancement for the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute which is based in Panama and has a 100+ year history of tropical biology research. As the chief development officer for the Institute, she manages a multi-national staff as well as an international advisory board and a local Panamanian board. Jenny joined the Smithsonian almost 10 years ago as a regional fundraiser for the first ever Smithsonian-wide capital campaign.,Jenny S. McMillan is the associate director of Advancement for the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute which is based in Panama and has a 100+ year history of tropical biology research. As the chief development officer for the Institute, she manages a multi-national staff as well as an international advisory board and a local Panamanian board. McMillan joined the Smithsonian almost 10 years ago as a regional fundraiser for the first ever Smithsonian-wide capital campaign.

Amy Parker

Amy Parker, CFRE, is vice president, Asia Pacific, at Grenzebach Glier & associates. With current clients in more than a dozen countries, GG+A combines industry best practices with an understanding of each organization’s cultural context to help nonprofits build sustainable fundraising and engagement structures. Prior to GG+A, she held fundraising leadership roles at the Smithsonian during its historic $1.5 billion campaign, the New York Public Library, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

Fundraising After A Tragedy: Finding Your New Normal

In October 2018, a shooting at a synagogue in Pittsburgh forever changed fundraising and communications for a nonprofit that served two of the men who died. Learn the steps one agency took to handle the influx of media inquiries and donations from around the globe. Learn how they were able to successfully steward and keep their new constituents informed then and now, and how they found their new normal.

Speakers

David Tinker

David Tinker, CFRE, FAFP, is vice president of advancement at ACHIEVA and an adjunct professor of informatics in Muskingum University's Master of Information Strategy, Systems & Technology program. An AFP Master Trainer, he received the Outstanding Fundraising Executive Award from the AFP Western Pennsylvania Chapter in 2013. In 2017, Tinker was honored as part of the inaugural class of Distinguished Fellows of AFP.

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

Fundraising Ethics: Special Considerations When Your Donors Are Older Adults

Charity scandals make sensational global headlines. A misstep in your local community–or across the continent–can cast a pall on the entire sector. The cry goes out: someone should do something! The damaging impact can endure for decades. Ethics in fundraising include the unique and close relationships we have with our donors. Ethical codes, principles, and practices provide clear direction on how to engage with donors at all stages of life, including elders.

Speakers

Robbe Healey

Robbe Healey, MBA, NHA, ACFRE, has practiced philanthropic fundraising and nonprofit organization management for more than forty years. She is an accomplished fundraising generalist with a track record of establishing new development offices and training board members and volunteers. Healey is the vice president for Philanthropy of Simpson Senior Services as well as a Founding Member of Aurora Philanthropic Consulting. She chaired the AFP International Board of directors from 2009 to 2010. Healey is currently the chair of the AFP Ethics Committee.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Fundraising Stats: Just the Facts on Fundraising Statistics

Learn about 67+ fundraising stats, presented by fundraising experts, that reveal the state of the fundraising union. Uncover donor acquisition and retention trends across the globe, and learn how your organization compares with these must-have benchmarks.

Speakers

Jim Greenfield

Since 1962, Jim Greenfield has served as a fundraising executive to three universities and five hospitals on the East and West Coasts and in between. He remains active today with consulting, speaking, teaching, volunteering, and writing in support of professional fundraising practices, including as a member of both the Growth in Giving Initiative Steering Committee and the Fundraising Effectiveness Project Working Group.

Ben Miller

Benjamin Miller is a consummate entrepreneur drawing upon degrees in mathematics and systems engineering to advance database marketing in the nonprofit industry. He is the chief analytic officer at DonorTrends and has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars from millions of donors over his career. Miller also serves on the Research Council for the AFP and is a member of the Growth in Giving Initiative.

Nathan Dietz

Nathan Dietz, Ph.D., is an associate research scholar at the Do Good Institute in the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland and a senior research associate in the Center on Nonprofits and Philanthropy at the Urban Institute. Dietz has served as the associate director for the National Center for Charitable Statistics (NCCS) and has led the Urban Institute’s participation in the nonprofit Growth in Giving Initiative.

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Grant Seeking 2.0: How to Effectively Engage Next-Generation Foundation Boards and Staff

We are in the midst of the most significant "changing of the guard" in the history of philanthropic foundations as the next generation of leaders assumes key staff and board roles. Learn how to effectively engage them, from initial contact through the submission of your proposal, to gain their attention and trust and secure crucial grant support for your organization.

Speakers

John Hicks

John Hicks, CFRE, is principal and founder of DLBHICKS LLC, a fundraising consulting and strategy firm that helps clients build and strengthen grantseeking programs. He is a faculty member at Columbia University's Nonprofit Management Program and a grant writing instructor for Candid. Hicks has been awarded "Stellar Speaker" status by CASE and has appeared as a presenter for AFP, The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Ford Foundation, and the Institute of Fundraising (U.K.).

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Guns, Gambling, and Marijuana: Mission-Minded Fundraising in a Party-Hearty World

This sessions provides an interactive look at the ethical implications of our fundraising decisions. How should we go about determining whether or not to pursue an idea, especially when donor and volunteer interests, fundraising potential, and mission principles collide? How do we decide whether to engage in relationships or events that involve potentially controversial elements such as guns, gambling, or marijuana? Participants will leave with practical tools for helping their organizations determine what’s right, for whom, and why.

Speakers

Marcella Moyer Schick

Marcella Moyer Schick is president and owner of MMS Advancement associates LLC. She has 35 years of experience in fundraising and constituent relations in education, healthcare, and human service organizations. Consulting since 2010, she helps organizations focus on relationship fundraising to grow major and planned gifts. Moyer Shick earned her MA from Fairleigh Dickinson and is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Muhlenberg College. She was named Outstanding Fundraising Executive by the AFP Eastern PA Chapter in 2009.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

How to Cook a Perfect Ask: The Ultimate Recipe for Corporate Partnerships

Do you know why companies engage in social causes? Do you know how to prospect and identify opportunities for new corporate partnerships? How can you be a master chef in fundraising? Learn from two corporate fundraising experts who will demonstrate the main ingredients to persuade a company to donate and how to secure new partnerships through relationships with existing and potential donors. Come find out the best recipe for corporate fundraising.

Speakers

Thiago Massagardi

Thiago Massagardi has a post graduate degree in social project management by PUC. Massagardi worked at SOS Mata Atlântica Foundation from 2007 to 2015. He also served as the chair of OCAS Magazine Social Project and is currently the vice chair. Massagardi worked to support several organizations in their fundraising, such as Baobá Fund for Racial Equity, Ipiranga Museum, Renal Vida, and others. Today, he is on the board of INSP (International Network Street Paper), of which OCAS is a member.

Ana Flavia Godoi

Ana Flavia Godoi is a professional with over 15 years of experience, focused on strategic fundraising planning, private fundraising (major donors and corporate fundraising), and negotiation strategies. She is the development coordinator at Seconci-Rio, where she implemented the organization’s fundraising department and has being responsible for all corporate partnerships. As a Brazilian Fundraisers Association Board Member, Godoi defends ethical fundraising practices for nonprofits and philanthropy. She is also a member of a group of key female leaders engaged in social transformation.

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

How to Generate Results With GRACE, a 5-Step Public Relations Planning Process

Looking for ways to transform your nonprofit’s mission and add value to the work you do? Learn how to create impact and deliver measurable outcomes with GRACE, an award-winning five-step planning process for your development and public relations efforts. Come to this session prepared with a goal, and the speakers will walk you through the strategic planning and basic communications principles. Bring a pen and paper, your laptop, or your tablet and be prepared to take action.

Speakers

Marisol Barrios

With 23 years of successful experience in communications, public relations, and the nonprofit sector, Marisol Barrios generates strategic integrated communications efforts to mitigate risks to nonprofits and manage reputations and trending issues. Accredited in public relations, Barrios creates impact with GRACE, a five-step, award-winning strategic PR process to transform the missions of organizations. A Forbes.com featured expert, she has earned Hillsides, a child welfare provider, seven public relations awards, including one for crisis communications.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

How to Recruit, Engage, and Empower Young Professionals to Survive and Thrive On Your Boards

In 2018, AFP released a report indicating that nonprofits need to invest in young professionals in order to tackle the talent crisis in our sector. In order for organizations to be sustainable, we need to engage young professionals on our boards, including our local AFP chapter boards. Come learn from AFP’s 2019 Outstanding Young Professionals about how their experiences working on both small and large boards strengthened their young professional efforts and ultimately increased revenue.

Speakers

Juliana Weissbein

AFP’s 2019 Outstanding Young Professional and Planned Parenthood's associate director of Development Operations, Juliana M. Weissbein, CFRE is a respected leader and decision influencer in regards to fundraising operations best practices. She thrives on measurable results and inspiring fundraisers to utilize formalized systems and reporting capabilities. Weissbein operates from a fundamental belief that a continued focus on data-driven insights can enable big and bold ideas. She is chairwoman of AFP-NYC's Emerging Leaders Committee.

Jace Prokupek

Jace Prokupek is a motivated and driven fundraiser who seeks to unpack social issues and raise crucial funds for innovative nonprofits. In two years, he has been promoted three times—starting as an executive assistant, then working with his own portfolio of major donors, and now is an associate director at Orr Group. Prokupek is currently the chair of the AFP-NYC Emerging Leaders Committee and a member of the Fundraising Day New York Executive Committee.

Jonathan Richardson

Jonathan is a queer Latino millennial fundraiser dedicated to addressing equity issues, building capacity, motivating new impact leaders, and getting stuff done. He is the Communications and Special Projects Officer at the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, President of AFP, NY Hudson Mohawk, and AFP’s 2019 Outstanding Young Professional Winner. He founded the Emerging Nonprofit Leadership Accelerator, a program that attracts emerging nonprofit leaders and helps them survive and thrive in the sector.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

I''m New, and I Want to Be Good! Jump Start Your Career with 8 Key Tips

Are you new to your job? Do you have lofty dreams and goals to make a difference, but you''re not sure where to begin? In this session, you will learn 8 key tips from a seasoned fundraiser. These tips will help you get started and put you on the path to quicker success. You will return home ready to impress your colleagues and show them you are ready!

Speakers

Mark Chilutti

Gabrielle Awuma is the development associate for Research at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Prior to joining the Gallery in February 2019, she worked at The Phillips Collection for four years, serving as the development assistant, stewardship coordinator, and, ultimately, the development manager for Major Gifts. Awuma earned her B.A. in Studio Art from Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Inconceivable! That Metric Does Not Mean What You Think It Means

Do you ever get the feeling that your development metrics are not helping you make smarter decisions? Is your board insisting on looking at the same numbers they have since the Stone Age? In this session, we will take a fresh look at fundraising metrics, including their flaws, fallacies, vulnerabilities, and strengths. We will examine the metrics we use today, how to improve them, and the metrics we should use in the future.

Speakers

Wes Moon

Wes Moon launched his not-for-profit career by accident at one of Canada’s most prestigious fundraising organizations, the University of Toronto. While he was there, he helped build the process, operations, and tools that fundraisers needed to be successful with data-backed decision making. Moon worked with other leading Canadian charities before joining Blackbaud where he led the Canadian team. While there, he saw a gap in the market and built Wisely, an AI powered fundraiser acceleration tool.

Kirk Schmidt

Kirk Schmidt lives in the intersection between fundraising and mathematics. Over the last two years, he has been in charge of data, analytics, donations processing, donor relations, and direct response at STARS Air Ambulance in Calgary. Prior to joining STARS, Schmidt spent the previous eight years consulting nonprofits throughout Canada and the United States on fundraising data, the underlying systems, analytics, and business process.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

Introvert or Extrovert? It Doesn’t Matter… Just Own Your Style

You know about introversion and extroversion. Have you heard that one of these personality styles is better than the other for fundraising? Actually, there are strengths and weaknesses to both. The key to success is knowing your style and owning it. Through awareness you can take advantage of the benefits of your style, and watch out for the hiccups you will be most likely to encounter. Fundraising trainers Mary Cahalane (the introvert) and Chad Barger (the extrovert) will be your guides during this fun introspective session.

Speakers

Mary Cahalane

Mary Cahalane is the principal of Hands-On Fundraising, a Connecticut-based firm. She’s a consultant, copywriter, and blogger. Cahalane's experience covers all areas of fundraising, but annual giving programs are a specialty. She helps organizations put donors at the center of their fundraising with effective donor communications and smart planning.

Chad Barger

Chad Barger teaches small charities to fundraise more effectively. He is chief strategist at the firm Productive Fundraising. Barger is better known as @fundraiserchad, publisher of a popular weekly email filled with free fundraising tips. As an avid hiker, he is known to frequently deliver those tips from the trail.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

Key Thinking Strategies of Phenomenal Leaders

As a leader, your thinking has a greater impact on your results than any other factor. In this session, you will learn how to challenge your self-imposed limitations to reflect the thinking of today’s most accomplished leaders. You will walk away with tangible strategies for overcoming your biggest leadership obstacles.

Speakers

Kim Ades

Kim Ades is the president and founder of Frame of Mind Coaching™ and JournalEngine™ Software. Author, speaker, entrepreneur, coach, and mother of five, Ades has years of experience coaching many of North America's most respected leaders. Recognized as an expert in the area of thought mastery, Ades uses her unique philosophy and quirky coaching style to help her clients with core issues and shift their thinking in order to yield extraordinary results.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Killing It on the Job When the Job Is Killing You

You’re a fundraiser who knows her craft– you should be killing it! Is the job killing you instead? Fundraisers face massive pressure to raise more and more money while also facing the unique challenges of working in nonprofit organizations. In this session, learn to differentiate between typical pressures and toxic stressors. The speakers will walk you through common challenges and offer four paths to success, distilled from our four decades of experience. We got you!

Speakers

Beth Ann Locke

Beth Ann Locke is chief development officer at BC Women's Health Foundation. She enjoys being a donor champion, is a tireless fan of our profession, and knows building relationships are key to success and sustainability. Locke has connected with donors to raise millions for causes in Canada and the U.S. She believes leaders must be fearless and invite others into the important conversations we must hold which is why she co-founded Ms.Rupt.

Clay Buck

T. Clay Buck has been in the nonprofit sector since 1991 and has an extensive background as both a frontline practitioner and fundraising consultant. His expertise is in annual and individual giving, with a focus on creating systems and processes that drive donor-centered results. Buck, who has held the CFRE certification since 2014, is an AFP Master Trainer and an International Advisory Panel member of Rogare. He teaches fundraising at UNLV.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

Leadership From Within

Jumping off from well-known leadership theories such as Cashman’s "Leadership from the Inside Out" as well as incorporating philosophies of movement such as the Alexander Technique, participants in this session will explore the connection between great leadership, mindfulness, and body awareness. Come ready to stretch yourself–both figuratively and literally! Do you find yourself losing energy during meetings? Are you unable to move crucial conversations forward? Are you generally exhausted after work? Then this is the session for you.

Speakers

Adrienne Longenecker

Adrienne Longenecker, CFRE, has more than 25 years of experience helping groups of people complete projects by tapping into their best selves. As the COO of Hill Country Conservancy, she works each day with the staff and board to activate a strategic plan and raise lots of money by maximizing the creativity and wisdom inherent in us all. Longenecker is a yogi who loves taking hikes with her son and two dogs.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

Let’s Talk About Trust: Professional Fundraising and Public Perception

Fundraising is problematic because it is too professional to be trusted and not adequately professional to warrant trust. Drawing on recent research, this session will explore why a general distrust of professional fundraising persists and consider how fundraising can gain trust in order to better serve public interest.

Speakers

Juniper Locilento

Juniper Locilento, MPNL, CFRE, is a fundraising leader currently serving as senior director of development at YMCA of Greater Toronto, vice president of Public Affairs at AFP Greater Toronto, and director of the AFP Foundation in Canada. She has worked with more than two dozen charities in health & human services, education, and arts & culture as both a practitioner and consultant. Locilento holds a Masters of Philanthropy and nonprofit Leadership and is an instructor in the Fundraising Management Program at Ryerson University.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Mission vs Money: Maintaining Public Trust and Upholding Ethical Principles in Fundraising

Public trust of nonprofit organizations is essential for effective fundraising. Because of their mission, nonprofits and their leaders are held to a higher standard of ethical performance that is missing in many for-profit companies today. Fundraisers and NPO leaders must balance competition for donors and dollars while upholding ethical standards that may sometimes challenge their organizations. Professionals will review and define the Code of Ethics, improve accountability and transparency, and leave with an understanding of the importance of ethical fundraising. Participants will review relevant ethical cases and assess their knowledge and information related to ethical code violations.

Speakers

Gina Johnson

Gina Johnson, M.P.A., CFRE, joined Cal Poly Pomona’s Advancement team in January 2011. As executive director of Central Development, Johnson oversees the university’s development activities including Corporate and Foundation Relations, Annual Fund, and Planned Giving, with an annual goal exceeding $10 million. Johnson has also maintained senior management positions in the Nonprofit Sector for over 20 years; serving as lead strategist and securing millions of dollars annually.

Yulunda Davis-Quarrie

Yulanda N. Davis-Quarrie, M.S., CFRE, joined Ramona Convent Secondary School in April 2019. As director of Institutional Advancement, she oversees the advancement activities including Annual Fund, Corporations and Foundations, Special Events, Major and Planned Giving, Alumnae Relations, and database management. Bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience in the field of philanthropy, Davis-Quarrie has held her CFRE since 1990 and has secured more than $80 million in philanthropic dollars for various nonprofits.

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Monthly Giving: What Fundraisers Can Learn From the UK Experience

What drives monthly giving? What are the barriers? In this session, Mark Phillips of Bluefrog, with more than thirty years of experience recruiting and upgrading monthly givers, will share the best practices to apply to your program, as well as what to avoid. Mark will also share brand new market research into donor attitudes to monthly gifts and real-life examples from the UK.

Speakers

Mark Phillips

Mark Phillips is the CEO of Bluefrog Fundraising. He has decades of experience in direct marketing, legacy and midvalue fundraising, digital fundraising, and research into understanding what makes donors tick. Phillips has proudly been described as "offering tough love to the sector." Everything he does is driven by responding to what donors need from charities. Phillips works and regularly presents in the U.K. and internationally. He loves fundraising and shares his thoughts and advice from a U.K. perspective.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

New Delhi to New York and Mumbai to Montreal: Indian Immigrants Make Their Philanthropic Mark

The Indian community is one of the fastest growing diaspora groups in the United States and Canada. As they establish new roots, philanthropic giving has already become a mainstay feature in their settlement story. How can your organization build bridges with Indian immigrants and the next generation? In this session, two academic researchers and two fundraisers join together to share their knowledge and experiences in engaging and stewarding this high potential donor group.

Speakers

Krishan Mehta

Dr. Krishan Mehta is executive director, Campaign at Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada. Previously, he held a variety of senior fundraising, alumni, and marketing roles at Seneca College and the University of Toronto. Mehta is also an instructor in Ryerson’s fundraising management program and recently completed his PhD from the University of Toronto where he studied the philanthropy of high net worth immigrants in Canada.

Manju Ramachandran

Since Manju Ramachandran was a teenager, she has been giving back to the South Asian community. She has supported Federation of Indo Americans, TiE, Foundation for Excellence, Maitri, and 1947 Partition Archive. Ramachandran has raised $5 milion fundraising to support programs at India Community Center, Second Harvest Food Bank, and currently at All Stars Helping Kids. Outside of work, she can be found drinking chai and watching the latest Bollywood movies with her three kids.

Bernadette White

Bernadette "Bernie" White has been in the nonprofit sector for 5 years, coming from the world of academia. In 2019, she completed her doctorate in Sociology from Syracuse University. Her research focused on transnational philanthropy and volunteerism in the Indian American community. Currently, White works at Second Harvest Food Bank, located in San Jose, CA, in corporate philanthropy.

Nivisha Mehta

Nivisha Jennifer Mehta has 18 years of experience in major gift fundraising, grant writing, special event planning and sponsorship, marketing, and program strategy and development for nonprofit organizations. In that time, she has raised more than $8 million. Nivisha Mehta has spent over nine of these years raising funds from Indian Americans in the Bay Area and has developed cultural competencies and best practices on how best to approach philanthropy in this affluent ethnic community.

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Oh No! Ready for a Crisis? Prepare for the Day You Hope Never Comes

Nobody wants to think about a scandal or emergency at their nonprofit organization. If the unexpected happens, are you ready? Whatever the crisis, an alleged fraud, allegations of sexual harassment, an accident, or a suspicious death, you must be prepared. In this session, learn crisis strategy, proven techniques, and tips on how to prepare for the day you hope never comes.

Speakers

Sam Laprade

For three decades, Sam Laprade has been inspired by philanthropy. Her life's passion is connecting with generous donors to help change lives and save lives. Laprade has experience with fundraising overall and specializes in donor database analytics, board relations, and stewardship. She also speaks about tough topics in the nonprofit sector. Laprade is the creator and host of “An Hour to Give” on 1310 News. The radio show focuses on philanthropy, volunteerism, and community.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

One Size Doesn''t Fit All: How to Engage Donors by Their Generation

Your donors are not the same, and your fundraising approach shouldn''t be, either. The truth is, from the Matures to Generation Z, giving looks different. Different generations are motivated to give for different reasons. They also give in very different ways. How can you build impactful and sustainable relationships with each generation? In this session, learn how to understand their different paths to philanthropy and how to engage them as loyal and long-term donors to your cause.

Speakers

Lynnette Adams

Lynnette Adams (M.A. in Public Relations and Organizational Communication) is the director of development at the Community College of Aurora Foundation and Adjunct Faculty Instructor for the nonprofit Leadership Management Masters University of Denver. She has over ten years of experience in fundraising and donor relations with a focus around building strong donor relationships and events. Her experience includes fundraising workshops at Colorado Free University and board leadership on donor development and donor stewardship.

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

One Voice, Endless Possibilities: A Guide to Integrated Fundraising

How do you tell your story in an integrated way? Learn how through a case study about the first integrated campaign implemented by St. Michael’s Hospital: the strategy, creative, and 40% increase in revenue! You will learn the good, bad, and ugly of integrated fundraising. Leave feeling informed and inspired to take on this approach!

Speakers

Ericka Tovey

Ericka Tovey is a passionate fundraiser with more than 13 years of experience holding various senior leadership roles in international development and health sectors. Tovey is passionate about data and using her insights to drive innovative multi-channeled fundraising that has raised millions of dollars over the span of her career.

Maeve Strathy

Maeve Strathy is a passionate and driven Fundraising Strategist at Blakely Inc. Every day, Strathy works with her clients on meeting and exceeding their fundraising goals, through a focus on insights-driven strategy, high-value donor relationships, integrated multi-channel fundraising, and the best possible donor experience.

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Portfolio Practices: How to Manage Your Front-Line Fundraising Portfolio for Success

Front-line fundraisers have donors to cultivate, metrics to meet, and budget goals to achieve. How do we build and manage our portfolios, as individuals and team members, for fundraising success? This session will address best practices in portfolio management and the real-life challenges faced by front-line fundraisers. Using both recommended procedures and personal experiences, we will address moves management practices, techniques for responsible reporting, and setting ambitious but realistic goals.

Speakers

Veronica Kannan

Veronica Kannan is an experienced development professional, specializing in performing arts fundraising, and is currently the director of development at Round House Theatre. An Ohio native, she has worked in development roles at Houston Grand Opera and the Alley Theatre in Houston and Florida Grand Opera in Miami. Kannan holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in violin performance from Miami University (OH) and the University of Miami (FL), respectively.

Nat Wyeth

Nat Wyeth serves as the director of development at the SEED School of Washington, D.C. His work at SEED focuses on cultivating new individual, foundation, and corporate relationships. Prior to joining SEED, Wyeth was a major gift officer at Washington National Cathedral for 8 years. A Baltimore native, he graduated from Rhodes College in Memphis, TN.

Betsy Purves

Bestsy Purves is the director of development for the DC Youth Orchestra Program. Previously , she was the senior major gifts officer at The Phillips Collection. With a decade of experience in individual philanthropy from membership to major gifts and beyond, Purves's career in arts fundraising has spanned nonprofits with 8 employees and a $1M budget to nonprofits with more than 70 employees and a $15M budget. She has a BA from Columbia University and an MA in Medieval Studies from University College, London.

Stephanie Johnson

Stephanie Johnson is the major gifts officer at Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. She previously held positions at Washington Performing Arts, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at Strathmore, and the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra. Johnson is the vice president of Resource Development for the DC Metro Area Chapter of AFP and is a former co-chair of Emerging Arts Leaders DC. She has an MA in Arts Administration from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, an MBA from the UC Lindner College of Business, and a BM-Music Performance from Florida State University.

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Practicing Gratitude, Learning From Fred Rogers, and Making Fundraising More Meaningful

Numerous studies suggest that practicing gratitude helps prevent illness, promotes optimism and happiness, and strengthens relationships. The research applies as much to leading a meaningful life as it does to feeling inspired on the job and effectively engaging donors. This session will present gratitude as a choice and explain ways to cultivate a grateful disposition. It will also make recommendations about thanking donors well, appreciating colleagues, and finding inspiration in the highest hopes and ideals of your organization.

Speakers

Alan Friedman

Alan Friedman directs fundraising at Fred Rogers Productions and currently manages FRP's Legacy Lives on Campaign. He previously directed Carnegie Mellon University's Institute for Social Innovation and Department of Foundation Relations. Friedman has also been a freelance journalist, a nursing aide, a preschool teaching aide, a waiter in a jazz club, and a recycling truck driver. He holds a Master's of Public Management from Carnegie Mellon and B.A. in English from UC Berkeley.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

Professional Authenticity or Career Suicide? How to Balance Personal and Professional Identities at Work

What happens when people stop being polite and start getting real? In this honest conversation with a panel of diverse fundraising professionals, learn how to navigate this increasingly blurry terrain of convergence and how to protect relationships with donors and CEOs.

Speakers

Brett Barnes,

Brett Barnes, CFRE, is senior director of development at Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas. His career has been focused primarily in the arts or social services. When not fundraising, Barnes can be found on the concert or opera stage performing or advocating in his role as an Austin Arts commissioner.

Brad Richardson,

Bradley Richardson is the director of Development and Campaign at Williamson College of the Trades, a full-scholarship, higher-education trade school located in Media, Pennsylvania. He is also a board member of AFP-Greater Philadelphia Chapter and the co-chair for AFP-GPC’s Young Professionals committee.

Daphne Logan

Daphne Logan, senior vice president, People at the Ounce of Prevention Fund, has a successful record of organizational and human resource strategy development and execution. She is a graduate of Northwestern University.

Sarah Weikel

Sarah Weikel is the director of Donor Relations at The Arc of Dutchess, an organization that supports people with disabilities. She specializes in peer-to-peer fundraising and relationship-building. Weikel holds a BA and MA in English Literature from SUNY New Paltz and received several local awards, including AFP MHV’s Rising Star Fundraiser.

Alice Ferris

Alice L. Ferris is the founding partner of GoalBusters Consulting, helping transform small but mighty philanthropic organizations. She has more than 25 years of fundraising experience in individual giving, grants, strategic and development planning, organizational change, and team training. A 20+ year member of AFP, Ferris has a passion for mentoring and supporting new leaders in fundraising and philanthropy.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

Rage Philanthropy: The Good, the Bad, and the Unknown

Anecdotal evidence and recent media reports suggest that donors are increasingly political in their gift-giving practices. But what do we really know about this phenomenon dubbed “rage philanthropy”? What impact does it have on organizations? This session will share emerging research and offer suggestions for fundraisers working with politically-minded donors.

Speakers

Amy Voida

Dr. Amy Voida is an assistant professor and founding faculty in the Department of Information Science at the University of Colorado Boulder. She holds adjunct appointments with the CU-Boulder Department of Computer Science and with the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. Dr. Voida conducts research in human-computer interaction, computer supported cooperative work, and ubiquitous computing, with a focus on philanthropic informatics.

Sarah Nathan

Sarah K. Nathan, Ph.D. is associate director of The Fund Raising School, a nationally renowned professional training program for fundraising practitioners. As a true pracademic, she supports faculty and curriculum development while researching the fundraising profession. Dr. Nathan holds an MA and PhD in philanthropic studies from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Melanie Sidwell

Melanie M. Sidwell recently earned her master's degree in Media Studies as part of the Media and Public Engagement (MAPE) program at University of Colorado Boulder. Her interests include studying the media's effect on philanthropy, both on individual and community engagement, through a nonprofit and higher education lens. Melanie writes frequently about philanthropy as a Senior Communications Manager for the Office of Advancement for the University of Colorado system.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Seven Things Every Donor Wish We Knew

This is the session your donors want you to attend, and so does your supervisor! Too often we approach fundraising from our own point of view. However, we can be far more successful by looking at fundraising from the only point of view that really counts, the donor''s. Come and learn how to make our jobs far more rewarding, raise more money, and have fun doing it.

Speakers

Wayne Olson

Wayne Olson is the author of four books and writes for Crescendo Interactive. He has also written for AFP's Advancing Philanthropy and Planned Giving Today. He has served fundraising roles for Universities, hospitals, and social services. Olson is an internationally sought-after speaker on donor relations, planned giving, and as a motivational speaker. He has worked with donors raising tens of millions of dollars as a fundraiser in his 20-year career.

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

Sitting Down With Billionaires: Reaching the Difficult-to-Reach Prospect for a First Meeting

Game-changing appointments with major philanthropists. We all want them. Learn how. Through 30+ years of the speaker''s practical experience, learn methods, techniques, and fun tips for obtaining appointments with the biggest philanthropists in your community.

Speakers

Armando Zumaya

Armando Zumaya is a nationally sought-after speaker, trainer, and lecturer on several niche subjects in fundraising (most notably, major-gifts prospecting and developing major-giving programs for small and medium-sized nonprofits and others). He is a veteran and currently serving as a development officer with 33 years of experience. Zumaya has had op-eds in The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The NonProfit Times, Grassroots Fundraising Journal, and, most recently, in Currents, the magazine of CASE.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Customized Training and Development Plans for Your Board

Are you a small or mid-sized nonprofit ready to guide your board to the next level? Not sure where to start? Come learn how to teach your board the joy of development! This highly interactive session will show you how to design your own board development training and how to craft and deliver customized development plans for immediate results.

Speakers

Annam Manthiram

Annam Manthiram is the current development director at HopeWorks, New Mexico’s largest nonprofit serving the needs of those experiencing homelessness. She has over 15 years of nonprofit and community organization work in multiple states, helping various organizations raise millions of dollars for their missions. Manthiram holds a Master’s Degree in Writing from the USC and is a recipient of the 2016 Albuquerque Business First 40 Under 40 Award. She is also a published author.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Subject Matter of a Mature Nature: Prospecting the Greatest Generation

Imagine your grandmother or grandfather. How did they enrich your life? What values did they instill in you about generosity, giving back, sacrifice, and service? The "Greatest Generation" is slowing fading away, but it''s not gone yet. Why are we chasing after Millennials when the "Greatest Generation" has so much to offer, and they are updating their wills! Join us for some great conversation.

Speakers

John Drake

After finishing a career in the YMCA, John Drake received a calling to serve in Ohio's largest not for profit retirement community several years before his mom was diagnosed with dementia. Thrilled to serve the greatest generation, he has learned invaluable life lessons through those he and thousands of others are called to serve. A CFRE and an AFP Master Trainer, Drake has been married to Diane 30 years and has three grown children.

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

The Best Practices to Make Your Donors Love You

Ten rising stars in fundraising will share their top tips for donor cultivation, retention, and stewardship in this rapid fire panel. With more than 50 ideas covered, you will leave with strategies and tactics you can implement immediately to bring you closer to your donors and your donors closer to your mission.

Speakers

Tommy Wrenn

Tommy Wrenn is the Deputy director of development for Public Justice where he manages development communications, the annual fund, and all major gifts prospect research and strategy. Wrenn has 5 years of experience in nonprofit work and brings a personalized approach to the intersection between development, board governance, and donor relations.

Gabrielle Awuma

Gabrielle Awuma is the development associate for Research at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Prior to joining the Gallery in February 2019, she worked at The Phillips Collection for four years, serving as the development assistant, stewardship coordinator, and, ultimately, the development manager for major gifts. Awuma earned her B.A. in Studio Art from Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia.

Penelope Poppers

Penelope Poppers is a proud native Arkansan and has been actively working around LGBTQ issues locally and nationally for the past 13 years. She is the founder and former executive director of Lucie’s Place, a home for LGBTQ young adults experiencing homelessness. Poppers is now the associate director of development at Planned Parenthood Great Plains and is very excited to finally not be at the top of an org. chart.

Johnny Avots-Smith

Johnny Avots-Smith is the director of development and Operations for Letterform Archive in San Francisco. He has a passion for helping donors realize their values and legacies through the good work of great nonprofits and for helping nonprofits realize their missions through the good stewardship of great donors. Avots-Smith holds a master of nonprofit administration (MNA) from the University of San Francisco and is a Certified Fund Raising executive (CFRE).

Kelsey DeForest

With experience in political campaigns, PACs, and a variety of nonprofits, Kelsey DeForest currently serves as the major gifts officer at amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research. In her previous position with the International Planned Parenthood Federation, she led the doubling of major gifts annual revenue. DeForest is committed to bringing her donors closer to the work they support through robust storytelling, connections to experts, and unique international trips to see the mission in action.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

The Case for Support Playbook: Using the Flexible Story Format to Engage Donors

Stop boring your supporters with your case for support. They already know what you''re going to say, and it''s too much about you! This session will explore how to create dramatically different and engaging cases for support using powerful psychological tools and frameworks.

Speakers

Bernard Ross

Bernard Ross is the director of a consultancy working worldwide for ethical organizations. He is the author of a number of books, including one on behavioral economics with Omar Mahmoud, head of knowledge at UNICEF. Bernard has created global strategies for the Red Cross, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and UNICEF. He’s raised money to refurbish the Eiffel Tower, to house the world’s largest dinosaur in Argentina, and to save the last 800 great apes

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

The Giving Brain: The Neuroscience of Legacy Giving

You know there are hundreds of billions of dollars out there in charitable bequests, and you''d love to get your share. With limited time, expertise, and money, how do you actually do it? Any marketer will tell you that the first step in a persuasion exercise is to fully understand your audience. In this fast-paced session, Canadian legacy giving guru Holly Wagg will help you uncover your audience in an unforgettable way.

Speakers

Holly Wagg

Holly Wagg, CFRE, is managing partner and Head Counsel at Good Works. She is the co-author of You Can’t Take it With You: The Art and Science of Legacy Fundraising (the second edition of Iceberg Philanthropy), the book on planned giving that shows fundraisers how ordinary donors make extraordinary gifts to charity in their wills. Wagg is a genius at digital legacy gift marketing.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

The Influential Fundraiser

Fundraisers must exert influence with major donors, board members, and colleagues. This session is based on The Influential Fundraiser by Bernard Ross and draws on psychology and neurology to win people over in one-on-one situations. We will focus on effective solicitation with high value donors and cover the 5 Ps: passion, proposition, preparation, persuasion, and persistence.

Speakers

Alan Hutson

Alan Hutson is the managing partner of The Monument Group and a senior partner consultant at the management centre (=mc). His domestic work focuses on unlocking the fundraising potential of CEOs and boards while building the capacities of early and mid-career development professionals. Hutson's recent international engagements have included Médecins Sans Frontières and UNICEF. In 2016, he presented at China’s first-ever global fundraising conference, and he presented at Japan’s 2018 Global Fundraising Conference.

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

The Intentional Fundraiser

Does this thought run through your mind at the end of a long day? "Thank goodness it''s 5 o''clock, now I can go home and get some work done." So much for work-life balance. Whether you’re a one-person shop or you manage a large team, The Intentional Fundraiser provides a high-performance approach to achieving success at work while reclaiming your life!

Speakers

Tammy Zonker

Known internationally for her inspiring and tell-it-like-it-is keynotes and training sessions, Tammy Zonker has been named one of America's Top 25 Fundraising Experts. She has trained, coached and led nonprofit teams to raise more than half a billion dollars, including a single gift of $27.1 million. When Zonker is not speaking at conferences or fundraising, she's leading webinars, e-courses, private workshops, and retreats.

The Neuroscience Laboratory

Your chance to become a decision scientist! This session will offer you the chance to work in a team and create an original experiment to test out some of the latest thinking in behavioural economics and neuroscience.

Speakers

Bernard Ross

Bernard Ross is the director of a consultancy working worldwide for ethical organizations. He is the author of a number of books, including one on behavioral economics with Omar Mahmoud, head of knowledge at UNICEF. Bernard has created global strategies for the Red Cross, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and UNICEF. He’s raised money to refurbish the Eiffel Tower, to house the world’s largest dinosaur in Argentina, and to save the last 800 great apes

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

The Psychology Behind Successful Fundraising Events

Fundraising galas and events succeed when they win the hearts and minds of their guests. When planning an event, what are the psychological and emotional triggers to consider that will help better connect guests to your cause? Learn a 3-step plan for maximizing guest engagement and turning guests into post-event donors.

Speakers

AJ Steinberg

Professional event planner A.J. Steinberg has produced over 100 events and raised millions of dollars for nonprofits. With Queen Bee Fundraising, Steinberg shares her 20 years of experience and event planning strategies with organizations through webinars, workshops, and consulting.

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

The Right Stuff: Innovative Approaches for Recruiting Fundraising Staff

Talented and skilled fundraisers are in perpetual demand. How do you find the right ones for your organization? This session provides research-based tools and strategies for effective hiring from recruitment and screening to interviewing and selection. Join us to learn new and creative approaches to this essential activity.

Speakers

Sarah Nathan

Sarah K. Nathan, Ph.D. is associate director of The Fund Raising School, a nationally renowned professional training program for fundraising practitioners. As a true pracademic, she supports faculty and curriculum development while researching the fundraising profession. Dr. Nathan holds an MA and PhD in philanthropic studies from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Genevieve Shaker

Genevieve G. Shaker, Ph.D., is associate professor of philanthropic studies in the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI. She was an advancement officer for 20 years, most recently as associate Dean for Development and External Affairs for the Indiana University School of Liberal Arts. Professor Shaker’s research focuses on higher education advancement, fundraising and fundraisers, and workplace philanthropy. She was named the Association of Fundraising Professionals' “Emerging Scholar” in 2015.

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

The Three-Legged Race: Engaging the Next Generation of Volunteer Leadership & Major Gift Donors

How can a volunteer/staff partner relationship maximize your fundraising potential? Join Christina Sorbara (campaign cabinet member) and Nancy Horvath (major gift fundraiser) as they discuss some of the hottest topics impacting the next generation of volunteer leadership and major gift fundraisers. They will explore the best ways to engage the next generation of volunteers, people from diverse backgrounds, and multi-generational donor families toward maximizing fundraising success.

Speakers

Christina Sorbara

Christina Sorbara is a multi-faceted business executive, strategic coach, speaker, and national team athlete. She is vice president of Corporate Knowledge at Sorbara Group of Companies, a multi-generational, family-run real estate development company in Toronto, Canada. Sorbara is chair of her family’s charitable foundation, The Sam Sorbara Charitable Foundation, and actively involved with various organizations and causes. She is a long-time SickKids volunteer, SickKids Innovators Advisory Council member, and SickKids VS Limits Campaign cabinet member.

Nancy Horvath

Nancy Horvath is director of Major Gifts at SickKids Foundation in Toronto, Canada and is responsible for engaging individuals and families to support the most urgent needs of the hospital. She has been involved in annual giving, leadership giving, and major giving programs for over 15 years. Horvath is deeply passionate about our experiences as diverse individuals, particularly as women and within the LGBTQ2 community, and how organizations can evolve practices to be more inclusively minded.

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

The Top 10 Challenges of Capital Campaigns: How to Fix Them and Still Reach Your Goal

Are you ready for the adventurous ride through the landscape of today''s capital campaign? You may pack carefully for the trip, but capital campaigns are fraught with adventure, risk, and challenges. In this interactive and practical presentation, two noted capital campaign veterans will guide you through crises and obstacles that you may face on your journey to a transformational fundraising goal. You will learn creative solutions that ultimately will bring big success!

Speakers

Gail Perry

Gail Perry, MBA, CFRE, is a nonprofit missionary and philanthropy expert. She’s the leader of Gail Perry associates Philanthropy consultants, dedicated to helping nonprofits achieve transformational fundraising goals. Perry is an international keynote speaker, leading nonprofit expert, and author of Fired Up Fundraising: Turn Your Board's Passion into Action, recognized as “the gold standard guide to building successful boards.”

Brian Bonde

Brian Bonde, ACFRE, is immediate past chair of the AFP US Foundation & consultant. He was vice president at Sanford Health, president at Children’s Care Foundation, and vice president at Augustana University. Bonde graduated from Augustana University & Stanford University post-graduate. He has raised over $150 million and recognized with the AFP IHQ Award for Excellence in Fundraising and AHP Showcase Award. Bonde is an author & speaker, having presented at ICON since 1988, and was recently a "Rebels" presenter in 2016 & 2017.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Timesaving Tools to Rock Every Fundraiser’s World

Want timesaving tools to up your nonprofit game? We’re tossing around tips like confetti! Get a bounty of free and affordable ideas to delight, stand out, and be completely unforgettable with your donors. It''s a bag of social media hacks and productivity tools to help you be better organized and wildly productive!

Speakers

Rachel Muir

Rachel Muir has worked every side of the Rubik’s cube that is the nonprofit sector. When she was 26, Rachel Muir launched Girlstart, a nonprofit empowering girls in math, science, engineering, and technology in the living room of her apartment with $500 and a credit card. Several years later, she had raised over 10 million and was featured on Oprah, CNN, and the Today show. Learn more about Rachel Muir at www.rachelmuir.com

Julia Campbell

Julia Campbell, MPA, is a global authority on nonprofit digital storytelling. The author of Storytelling in the Digital Age: A Guide for Nonprofits and Social Media Success in 90 Days: A Guide for Nonprofits and Change Agents, she trains nonprofits on how to use digital tools to tell compelling stories, engage active supporters, and raise millions.

Rachel Clemens

Rachel Clemens builds things. First, she built a career as an international designer, working in the U.S., London, and Australia. Then Clemens built Creative Suitcase, her own strategic communications firm. In late 2016, Creative Suitcase was acquired by TradeMark Media, and together they became Mighty Citizen, an agency that helps nonprofits raise money and awareness to improve their communities.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

Tips & Tricks to Grow Your Small Shop Bigger, Faster

Do you work in a small, or one-person, shop? Are you new to fundraising? Have to do it all? One of AFP ICON''s most talked about sessions is back with *new* insights along with the tried-and-true ones. Walk away with *actionable* tips & tricks from professionals with decades of small shop experience that will help grow your shop bigger, faster without sacrificing quality. This session focuses on small shops regardless of experience level.

Speakers

James Phelps

James K. Phelps, J.D., ACFRE, has been a development professional for 29 years. After 21 years working for nonprofits, he started his own consulting business, JKP Fundraising, LLC, where he provides comprehensive development services to small nonprofits. Phelps is currently serving in his 11th interim position, a service provided in his consultancy. He also conducts development audits, assists in creating development plans, and provides board training.

Jim McBride

Jim McBride has over 30 years of marketing and fundraising experience. He established the development department at the UCSF AIDS Health Project as part of graduate coursework at University of San Francisco. During his tenure at the AIDS Legal Referral Panel, McBride helped triple the agency’s revenue while establishing a 12-month operating reserve. As a volunteer Board member, he helps small nonprofits establish communications and fundraising operations, including Let’s Kick A.S.S. and Rainbow World Fund.

B.Michael McFarland

B. Michael McFarland is director of development for Foundation for a College Education. He has served in various development capacities for Trinity School, Chicago Charter School Foundation, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, Voices for Illinois Children, Benedictine University, Louisville Youth Choir, and Walden Theatre. McFarland has helped raise more than $20,000,000 over his career, mostly with small or one-person shops.

Unlocking Your Legacy Potential

Gifts in Wills represent over 85% of all planned gifts. What are YOU doing to unlock this potential? Using case studies from around the globe and activities, this two-day masterclass will teach participants the fundamentals of a strong legacy program such as proper data mining & segmentation; impactful engagement through a legacy pipeline to get a pledge; developing personalized supporter journeys; effective marketing; and reporting to track success.

Speakers

Ligia Pena

Ligia Peña, CFRE is the Global Legacy Manager at Greenpeace International where she drives the organization’s global legacy strategy and manages a community of practice of legacy managers in 14 countries. She’s a seasoned presenter internationally and author of the ‘Small Shop Fundraising’ chapter in the 2nd volume of Excellence in Fundraising in Canada. You can follow her adventures at www.globetrottingfundaiser.com

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

Using Digital to Dig Deeper in Your Database and Drive Donor Development

Four out of five organizations do not use the information they have at their fingertips to their maximum potential, likely because the information they''re collecting in their databases is stale or ineffective. This workshop will tell you how organizations of all sizes can use data collection, free (or inexpensive) technology solutions, and digital engagement techniques to move prospects up the ladder to super-volunteers and major donors.

Speakers

Brianna Gianti

Brianna Gianti is an innovative leader who blends passion, integrity, entrepreneurial strategies, fiscal acumen, and results-oriented execution to achieve organizational goals. She is a results-proven, energetic senior nonprofit/association relationship builder with expertise in achieving superior performance through effective management of people, information, and technology. Gianti works for EveryAction, the nonprofit arm of NGPVAN, the leading CRM for political candidates, used in every campaign from local to presidential races.

John Dawe

John Dawe is an associate consultant with GoalBusters, providing hands-on, comprehensive fundraising leadership for small to medium sized nonprofit organizations. He has been helping organizations build influence, impact, and leadership for more than 15 years. Serving in various organizational roles as strategic planner, change management consultant, outsourced development officer, and interim leadership roles from CEO/executive director, CIO, CPO, and CMO, Dawe helps organizations find their voice, amplify it, and get others to share their message.

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

Using the Phone to Qualify Leads and Get Appointments

We all have a phone on our desk or in our pocket. The phone is a very powerful fundraising tool. However, the phone is intrusive, so we have to be careful and respectful when we make donor calls. Whether you are new to fundraising or have years of experience, this session will help you hone your skills and develop personal techniques for successfully talking with your donors on the phone and getting visits.

Speakers

Tim Logan

Timothy D. Logan, FAHP, ACFRE, is associate vice president of Strategy at Barton Cotton. He is a leader in developing innovative multichannel direct response programs for major and planned giving. Logan holds a Masters of Nonprofit Management (MNO) from Case Western Reserve University. He has 39 years of experience in fund raising and nonprofit management, including 22 years as a direct response fundraising consultant. An AFP certified Master Instructor, Logan is also an author on fundraising.

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

We Really Don''t Want That Book / Collection / Artwork! Artfully Rejecting and Redirecting Gift-in-Kind Conversations

Ever had someone contact you about donating a gift-in-kind (GIK), only to find out their "treasure" is really troublesome for you and your organization? Do you work in a GLAM (Gallery, Library, Archive, Museum) institution that struggles with its GIK policies and donor conversations? In this session, learn how to deflect and redirect those "treasures" while keeping--and even improving--solid donor relationships.

Speakers

Keith Gorman

Keith Phelan Gorman is assistant dean for Special Collections and University Archives at the University Libraries, University of North Carolina, Greensboro. His prior appointments include Simmons College, Smithsonian Archives, and the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Gorman holds both a MLIS (Archives) and PhD in History. Seeking to increase the use and visibility of UNCG’s collections, he has championed community engagement, the digitization of collections, adoption of new access tools, and expansion of instructional services.

Karlene Jennings

Karlene Noel Jennings, MSIS, PhD, CFRE, has raised more than $100M for libraries, museums, and higher education during her two decades in development. She is an AFP Master Trainer and an adjunct faculty member for several institutions. Jennings has written several books about library advancement and currently serves as executive director of development for UNC Greensboro. She is passionate about learning and philanthropy as well as connecting people with people and people with ideas.

March 30

8:00am - 9:15am

What Does Truth and Reconciliation Mean in the Philanthropic Sector?

In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada released a final report and 94 calls to action, following a multi-year process of listening to survivors, communities, and others affected by the Indian Residential School system. Based on a small survey of the philanthropic sector, this session will explore the unique role the sector can play in contributing to the work of reconciliation in Canada. What is the knowledge level of stakeholders in the sector? What successes, opportunities, and challenges do they face in supporting the Truth and Reconciliation calls to action?

Speakers

Sharon Redsky

Sharon Redsky is resident of Winnipeg and First Nation member of Shoal Lake #40. She is a member of the AFP Manitoba Chapter and employed with Dakota Ojibway Child & Family Services Inc as a development coordinator. Redsky was awarded the YMCA-YWCA Women of Distinction, Community Champion Award in 2017.

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

What Mystery Shopping Tells Us About Donor Care (or Lack Thereof)

Think your organization is excellent at donor care? If your staff were mystery shopped, are you certain they would respond according to ethical best practices? This session explores how Fundraising Institute Australia developed and managed a member mystery shopping program to improve ethical fundraising, particularly around donors in vulnerable circumstances.

Education Track

Practitioner

Speakers

Katherine Raskob

Katherine Raskob is the CEO of Fundraising Institute Australia, which lobbies the government on behalf of the sector’s interests, promotes ethical, best-practice fundraising, and provides training to advance the professionalism of fundraising. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in International Management, both from universities in the United States. Raskob is also a graduate and member of the Australian Institute of Company directors and sits on the board of Girl Guides Australia.

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

What Nonprofits Can Learn About Building an Engaging Brand From Stand-Up Comedians

What can stand-up comedians like Carlin, Seinfeld, or Rock teach nonprofits about engaging new supporters? The answer: How to stand out! Leigh Kessler, a former stand-up comedian, TV personality, and branding expert, takes audiences inside the world of stand-up comedy. He highlights the journey that comedians take to find their authentic voice, grab people''s attention with their story, and communicate with authenticity across any channel, helping fundraising and nonprofit professionals re-imagine how their supporters see them.

Speakers

Leigh Kessler

Leigh Kessler is the vice president of Marketing at donor management software platform, CharityEngine, and a frequent speaker on branding, fundraising, data, and technology. He is a former nationally touring headline comedian and has appeared on numerous shows including VH1's "Best Week Ever", CNN's "Showbiz Tonight", and shows on the Discovery Channel and Sirius Radio. Over the past 15 years, Kessler has overseen and informed research and branding strategies for some of the most well known brands in America.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

Why Babies at Work Will Change Nonprofit Culture for Working Moms

As we continue to tackle issues of equity and inclusion within the workplace, let''s talk about one of the most forgotten groups, working moms. Throughout all sectors, working moms with new babies face enormous pressure to return to work as soon as possible. This creates stress for the new mom and lowers productivity. It doesn''t have to be this way. Join us for an interactive discussion about ways to create better workplaces for working moms.

Speakers

Dr. Allison Plattsmier

Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector. She currently serves as executive director of the Jordan Thomas Foundation and runs her own nonprofit consulting business, AQP Consulting. Plattsmier has raised over $1.2 million throughout her time in the nonprofit sector earning her recognition as one of AFP’s 2018 Outstanding Young Professionals. She specializes in nonprofit governance, strategic planning, donor psychology, and grant writing.

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Why You Need More Women Donors and How You Can Get Them

You need more women donors! Women have the potential to change your nonprofit organization with their philanthropy. Learn how to engage them, how the differences in their attitudes about wealth and philanthropy affect their giving, and how you can influence current and future generations of women to give more. Real people share their stories, and research studies confirm what we have assumed but now know for sure. Women''s philanthropy is part of the future.

Speakers

Lois Buntz

Lois Buntz is a seasoned professional fundraiser with 35 years of experience in nonprofits and education. As a former United Way CEO, she has raised more than $120 million in annual, endowment, and capital campaigns. Currently, Buntz consults in major gift strategies and women's philanthropy programs. She holds an MSW from Univ Iowa and NP certification from Stanford. Buntz has presented at local and national AFP programs and is writing a book on women and philanthropy.

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Why Your Capital Campaign Needs a Planning Study

Yes, your nonprofit organization needs a planning study for its capital campaign. In this session, learn why. Through a comprehensive overview, learn what a planning study is and what it isn''t. We will look at organizational readiness and staff and volunteer roles. You will learn how to better understand how to maximize a planning study''s analytics and final report. Leave the session prepared to fully participate in your nonprofit''s internal discussions and implementation of a planning study.

Speakers

Melissa Brown

Melissa Brown is a consultant with clients in US, Canada, and Panama. She is also a faculty member of The Fund Raising School and a national presenter for AFP chapters, United Way affiliates, etc. In 2016, Brown was recognized as one of the Top 25 philanthropy speakers in the US. She was also an editor for Giving USA 2001-2010, an author of several articles in Advancing Philanthropy, an analyst for AFP Compensation and Benefits Study, a development professional at Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, a development assistant at the Folger Shakespeare Library, and program manager for the Homeless Initiative Program.

Deborah Eschenbacher

A Carter consultant and Faculty Member of The Fund Raising School for 25 years, Deborah Eschenbacher works in the US and internationally. She has served as Development director of two regional nonprofits, State executive director of two national nonprofits, major gifts officer at Ohio State, director of Corporate & Foundation Development at Ohio University, and 20 years as a consultant. Eschenbacher has an M.A. in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University Lilly School of Philanthropy and is a chapter author in Achieving Excellence in Fundraising.

Writing a 21st Century Case for Support

Choosing the right words is key to receive approval for your grant request or a yes for any financial contribution. You case should clearly explain WHY, WHO, HOW and WHAT IT TAKES financially to do it. The 21st century case for support must look, sounds and feel different to cause action. Be prepared to receive coaching from Lori and your colleagues as you answer seven questions that must be answered in any case for support.

Speakers

Lori Jacobwith

Lori L. Jacobwith, a fundraising culture change expert and master storyteller, has helped 4,500 nonprofits raise more than $350 million from individual donors. Lori teaches staff and board members powerful communication practices to ignite action and raise more money. She is author of Fire Starters weekly blog, Nine Steps to a Successful Fundraising Campaign, and the Complete Storytelling System. Her vision is that asking for money can be done with ease and joy.

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

You Got the Job! What to Do Your First 90 Days As a Team Leader

Congratulations, you got the job! Now what? The first 90 days in your new leadership role can seem overwhelming, yet they are critical to the long-term success of your team, development strategy, and fundraising goals. Learn how using appreciative inquiry can ensure alignment with your boss, board, and team, and how the appropriate use of transparency and vulnerability can set everyone up for success.

Speakers

Melissa Simon

Melissa Simon, MSW, CFRE, is the senior director of development at Casa de Esperanza de los Ninos and the immediate past president of AFP-Greater Houston Chapter. She spent the first 11 years of her professional career providing direct service to vulnerable populations. Since earning her MSW, Simon has focused her efforts on raising needed resources to change the world and sharing her experience with others through mentoring, presenting, and leading development teams.

Liz Bear

Liz Bear has been a fundraiser for over eight years. She is the Development director at Vita Living, an organization serving over 400 adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Previously, Bear worked in several different development roles at a residential children’s home. She served on the 2017 AFP Greater Houston Chapter’s Ask the Experts Conference Committee. Liz Bear has a master's degree in English from the University of Oklahoma and earned her CFRE in 2016.

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

You Need a Killer Opening Act: The Role of the Annual Fund in Major Giving

Major gifts are essential to fundraising and campaign success. Many major gift donors begin their giving with a gift to your annual fund. In addition to securing new donors and annual gifts, a successful annual fund can help upgrade donors, build donor loyalty, and develop major gift and planned giving donor prospects. In this session, we will discuss how the annual fund can help increase major gift results.

Speakers

Tim Logan

Timothy D. Logan, FAHP, ACFRE, is associate vice president of Strategy at Barton Cotton. He is a leader in developing innovative multichannel direct response programs for major and planned giving. Logan holds a Masters of Nonprofit Management (MNO) from Case Western Reserve University. He has 39 years of experience in fund raising and nonprofit management, including 22 years as a direct response fundraising consultant. An AFP certified Master Instructor, Logan is also an author on fundraising.

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Your Next Planned Gift is Just a Phone Call Away!

This session will explore current statistics and trends in planned giving and look at new ways to enhance your organization’s planned giving efforts. Discover techniques for identifying planned giving prospects, soliciting potential donors, and closing the gift over the phone. Most planned giving donors say they were "simply never asked” for a gift. Learn how your organization can avoid this common pitfall and develop a thriving and profitable planned giving marketing and solicitation plan.

Speakers

Anthony Alonso

Anthony Alonso, president of Catapult Fundraising, has over 30 years of experience in direct marketing. His experience ranges from the education, healthcare, and social services fields to the arts. Alonso has had the honor of working with prestigious institutions across the United States. It is his expertise that has led his clients to successfully raise over $250 million within the last five years from the lower end of the donor pyramid.

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Your Shop''s Ops: The Top System Operations Fundraisers Need to Implement Today

Are you ready to reinvent your fundraising operations? No matter the size of your organization, this session will teach you the most impactful ways to enhance your systems and processes. We will share operational best practices and tangible ways to better organize your work while maintaining a change management lens. When you implement these donor management and data system practices, your donors will notice and your team will thank you!

Speakers

Juliana Weissbein

AFP’s 2019 Outstanding Young Professional and Planned Parenthood's associate director of Development Operations, Juliana M. Weissbein, CFRE is a respected leader and decision influencer in regards to fundraising operations best practices. She thrives on measurable results and inspiring fundraisers to utilize formalized systems and reporting capabilities. Weissbein operates from a fundamental belief that a continued focus on data-driven insights can enable big and bold ideas. She is chairwoman of AFP-NYC's Emerging Leaders Committee.

Amy Dorfman

Amy Dorfman is the lead project manager on the Development Operations team at Planned Parenthood Federation of America. In this role, she has led the organization through a successful CRM migration and implementation of Salesforce. Previously at the American Civil Liberties Union, Dorman managed development database business support for the ACLU national office and 53 affiliates. She holds a Masters of Public Administration with a Nonprofit Management concentration from The George Washington University.

Barbara Caceres Cerda

Barbara Caceres is the user support & training manager on the Development Operations team at Planned Parenthood Federation of America. In this role, she has successfully developed and managed user training programs that include department-wide go-live trainings upon the implementation of Salesforce, refresher sessions on functionality and best practices, and new user onboardings. Caceres holds a Master's of Liberal Studies from The Graduate School and University Center of the City University of New York.

education sessions

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

5 Trends With the Power to Change Major Gift Fundraising

Speakers

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

A (Cis) Man’s Place Is in This Session: No, Really, Come to This Session

Speakers

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

A Christian, a Muslim, and a Jew Walk Into a Room...

Speakers

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

A Seat at the Table or Part of the Meal: Creating a Culture of Inclusion

Speakers

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Advocacy and Philanthropy: Turning Donors Into Powerful Advocates

Speakers

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Ask For Anything Artfully

Speakers

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Beyond the Hype: What Actually Works in Digital Fundraising and Social Media

Speakers

March 30

1:15pm - 2:30pm

Changing Global Paradigms: Leading on Shifting Sands

Speakers

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Chasing Cash Is Crazy: Creativity Counts Crafting Consistently Credible Contributions

Speakers

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

Creating Culturally Responsive Fundraising Campaigns

Speakers

March 30

3:00pm - 4:15pm

Crushing It: Capital Campaign Communications That Knock Their Socks Off

Speakers

March 29

9:00am - 10:15am

Diversity in Development: Black Women Wear White Hats

Speakers

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Donor Advised Funds: The New Paradigm in Philanthropy

Speakers

March 31

8:00am - 9:15am

Donor Love: Brain, Data, and Experience to Supercharge Your Donor Retention

Speakers

March 31

10:15am - 11:30am

Elevate Your Event Experiences

Speakers

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

Embracing the Power of Your Legacy Pipeline

Speakers

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Everything That’s Wrong With Fundraising Self-Regulation–And Quite a Bit That’s Right

Speakers

March 29

10:45am - 12:00pm

Everything You Know About Boards Is Wrong

Speakers

March 29

4:00pm - 5:15pm

Fairy tale wedding, marriage of convenience or out of necessity? Creating the perfect union between business and your nonprofit.

Speakers

March 30

10:15am - 11:30am

Fish in Your Own Pond: Combining Analytics and Stewardship to Raise More Money